Dana Carvey sings for Adam Sandler | 2023 Mark Twain Prize

Watch the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor celebrating Adam Sandler on CNN.com or CNNgo.

The Kennedy Center's Mark Twain Prize, which is named to honor one of the world’s greatest humorists, was awarded to Adam Sandler at a gala performance featuring some of the biggest names in comedy -- including Chris Rock, Conan O'Brien, Ben Stiller, Dana Carvey, Pete Davidson, Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Anniston, Idina Menzel, David Spade, and more -- on March 19, 2023, and aired nationally on CNN on March 26, 2023.

The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor recognizes individuals who have had an impact on American society in ways similar to the distinguished 19th-century novelist and essayist Samuel Clemens, best known as Mark Twain. As a social commentator, satirist, and creator of characters, Clemens was a fearless observer of society, who startled many while delighting and informing many more with his uncompromising perspective on social injustice and personal folly.

“Adam Sandler has entertained audiences for over three decades with his films, music, and his tenure as a fan favorite cast member on SNL,” said Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter about this year’s recipient. “Adam has created characters that have made us laugh, cry, and cry from laughing. I am looking forward to a laughter-filled evening like no other as we celebrate his career at a ceremony that is sure to bring together the best in comedy.”

#MarkTwainPrize #AdamSandler #danacarvey #kennedycenter #cnn

[TheMrPeacock]

I wish we could of heard Norm at this.

[Moondancin]

honoring Adam Sandler in the most Adam Sandler way.

So much respect shown by Dana.

[CloudslnMyCoffee]

Adam sitting on the edge of his seat exicted to hear his friends is so damn wholesome

[kirbyourenthusiasm]

I was laughing until the end when he said “you’re a great comedian…but a better man” and then suddenly I was all teary eyed. 🥹 Such a funny but then really sweet tribute.

[craneanderson]

All of these friends of his have been by his side for over 3 decades. If that isn't a blessing and a successful personality, I don't know what is. High respect to Adam.

[richtirado]

His last line was perfect ..." your a great comedian but a better man". That rite there says it all!!!!

[danielyang]

Every tribute is so heartfelt and genuine. It takes a special man to have so many people say such warm words.

[-Ricky_Spanish-]

God I love Dana. I don't think anything else could have put a smile on my face on a grim Monday morning.

[mototaco]

So much talent at these Mark Twain award events.... Its like a buffet night of comedy.

[calkelpdiver]

I'm not a big Adam Sandler fan, but damn. When you have your friends honor you like this you have to give respect to Adam for his work and his life. A good man, and that's what counts in this life.

[memoryhero]

Carvey is as class as they come. Everything. Full package human.

[angelthman]

Dana is so underrated. He should be as big as Adam or even bigger, and also be getting the Mark Twain Prize.

[tannaziii]

You are a great comedian... but a better man!

[Buc_Stops_Here]

You don't see Dana Carvey all that much anymore, but he is still very funny when he puts his mind to it. His impressions are still quite good after all these years.

[danielpaiva]

That’s how you pay tribute Sandman style.

[jasonb]

Dana .. you’re a wicked fun dude ! Thx for the laughs !

[Michelle-sskm]

Omg!!! Is the MASTER IN DISGUISE 😱
I was so obsessed with that movie as a kid, so beautiful to see all of them are friends ❤️👌🏻

[kelseytijerina]

Dana is soooo underrated 😂. I love him!!!!

[pamelabonaparte]

Only another comedian can sing something so silly and it makes you emotional, because really it was a “Love Song “ ❤ beautiful 👏🏻

[creedex]

Those people are literally the funniest people on earth